Concerns Over Mayoral Candidate Zoran Mamdani’s Impact on NYC’s Jewish Community
In New York City, there’s growing concern among rabbis about the potential election of Democrat Zoran Mamdani as mayor. They believe it could jeopardize the safety of the Jewish community.
Rabbi Elliott Cosgrove from Park Avenue Synagogue shared his worries on “Fox & Friends First,” stating, “this is a time when Jewish self-concern, safety is at stake.” He emphasized the importance of voicing concerns regarding Jewish safety amidst broader city discussions about issues like sanitation and policing.
Cosgrove expressed his fears on Saturday, warning that Mamdani “poses a danger to the safety of New York’s Jewish community.” He noted that Mamdani’s affiliation with the Democratic Socialists leads to the acceptance of inflammatory slogans, such as those promoting the “globalization of the intifada,” which Mamdani has previously denounced, citing serious implications for Jewish safety.
In response to mounting criticism, Mamdani mentioned last month that he would “discourage” the use of such phrases, which have associations with violence against Israel. His criticisms of Israel are well-documented; he has previously suggested that NYC should honor an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court if Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu came to the city. Nevertheless, he has consistently denied accusations of being anti-Semitic.
As Election Day approaches, Cosgrove believes it’s crucial for everyone to actively engage in discussions about these concerns.
He remarked, “When I talk to the Park Avenue community, I’m mostly preaching to the choir.” But there are plenty of folks—both Jewish and non-Jewish—who remain undecided. He added, “We all need to reach out to our circles of influence. Not everyone has a pulpit, but everyone has friends and family they can have one-on-one conversations with.” His message is clear: “There are no gray areas when it comes to the safety of the Jewish community.”
Mamdani’s campaign has pointed to endorsements from Jewish figures, including Sen. Bernie Sanders, as a counter to the allegations of anti-Semitism. His team also referenced support from Orthodox Jewish leaders who criticized former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s pandemic policies as “anti-Semitic.” Mamdani plans to tackle anti-Semitism by dramatically increasing funding to prevent hate crimes.
If successful, Mamdani would make history as New York City’s first Muslim mayor.
